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Cyprus Launches De Minimis Sponsorship Plan to Accelerate Global Market Penetration

Government Initiative Aims to Empower Cypriot Exporters

The Cypriot government has taken a decisive step to boost the international competitiveness of its local businesses. The Cabinet recently approved the new De Minimis Sponsorship Plan, designed to support Cypriot companies participating in international trade exhibitions where the Ministry of Energy, Commerce and Industry (MEIC) operates a government booth. The initiative, proposed by Minister George Papanastasiou, is poised to drive Cypriot producers into new markets.

Strategic Investment to Enhance Global Outreach

With a targeted budget of €1,700,000 allocated for 2026, the plan seeks to strengthen the international presence of Cypriot companies involved in manufacturing and product trading. The overarching goal is to increase exports and assist these enterprises in penetrating competitive global marketplaces. This strategic investment is expected to empower businesses to achieve sustainable growth, resonating with similar international initiatives that have successfully deepened market reach.

Eligibility and Submission Guidelines

Eligibility for the scheme extends to companies and officially recognized Producer Groups and Organizations operating in the industrial processing and trading sectors—including those in allied service industries. Notably, the government clarifies that participation is contingent on the timely receipt of applications. Companies are eligible to apply individually via direct submission, by registered mail, or private courier between November 28, 2025, and December 19, 2025. Late submissions beyond December 19, 2025, will be considered untimely and will not be reviewed.

Global Trade Fairs on the Horizon

The approved sponsorship plan will facilitate participation in a series of high-profile international trade fairs. Key events include the Industrial Products Exhibition in Athens (May 8-10, 2026); Food and Beverage exhibitions in Dubai (January 26-30, 2026); and notable exhibitions in Düsseldorf (March 15-17, 2026), Paris (October 17-21, 2026), and Berlin (February 4-6, 2026). These events represent well-timed opportunities for Cypriot businesses to showcase their products on a global stage.

This government-backed initiative is a clear indication of Cyprus’s commitment to fostering economic growth through enhanced international trade. It underscores a forward-thinking approach where strategic public investments catalyze private sector success on global platforms.

Agriculture Ministry Extends Deadline For Strategic Investment Initiatives

Revised Timelines Strengthen Sector Support

The Agriculture Ministry, in coordination with the Cyprus Agricultural Payments Organisation, has extended the submission deadline for applications to secure funding under the Major Investment Measure and Young Farmer Installation initiatives. This decision comes after extensive consultations with primary sector stakeholders, ensuring that the updated timeframe better accommodates the demands of a dynamic agricultural landscape.

Enhanced Funding Opportunities

The revised deadline now stands at March 31, 2026, replacing the initial cut-off date of January 30, 2026. The investment measures collectively offer a total budget of €67.5 million, exclusively accessible via the official payments organisation website. Applications must be submitted by accredited consultants approved by the Department of Agriculture, underscoring the initiative’s commitment to precision and expertise.

Modernization and Sustainability at the Forefront

The Major Investment Measure is distinguished by ten comprehensive reforms aimed at modernizing both livestock and crop farms. This initiative emphasizes enhanced competitiveness, sustainability, and significant improvements in environmental protection and animal welfare, including investment in waste processing and management. Such strategic investments are essential for adapting to modern challenges and elevating the primary sector.

Encouraging the Next Generation of Agriculturists

The Young Farmer Installation intervention targets the urgent need to rejuvenate an ageing agricultural workforce. By fostering competitive holdings under the guidance of emerging agricultural leaders—those who either already possess or are in the process of acquiring the necessary expertise—the program builds a sustainable future for farming communities.

Simplified Procedures and Integrated Digital Access

Streamlined protocols, including a dedicated licensing guide for agricultural and livestock structures, have been introduced to facilitate smoother application processes. Special arrangements with the Ministry of Interior and other competent agencies have further expedited licensing and operational approvals. Candidates must also be registered in the Register of Farmers and Agricultural Holdings to qualify.

Further Information

Detailed application manuals and additional instructions are available on the Strategic Plan for the Common Agricultural Policy 2023-2027 website. The Agriculture Ministry anticipates that this extension will encourage higher quality proposals and facilitate more effective absorption of available European and national funds.

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